In accordance with RCW 41.06.500, the WMS rules must adhere to the following goals:

(1) Simplified classification system that facilitates movement of managers between agencies and promotes upward mobility;

(2) Flexibility in setting and changing salaries and a compensation system that is consistent with RCW 41.06.500;

(3) Performance appraisal system that emphasizes individual accountability, program results and efficient management of resources, effective planning, organization, and communication skills, valuing and managing workplace diversity, development of leadership and interpersonal abilities, and employee development;

(4) Strengthened management training and career development programs that build critical management competencies, focusing on managing and valuing workplace diversity, empowering employees by enabling them to share in workplace decision making, and to be innovative, willing to take risks, and able to accept and deal with change, promoting a workplace where the overall focus is on the recipient of the government services and how these services can be improved, and enhancing mobility and career advancement opportunities;

(5) Flexibility in recruitment and hiring procedures that enable agencies to compete effectively with other employers, both public and private, for managers with appropriate position-based competencies, leadership skills and training, allowing consideration of all qualified candidates for positions as managers, and achieving affirmative action goals and diversity in the workplace;

(6) Provisions that managers may only be reduced, dismissed, suspended, or demoted for cause;

(7) Facilitation of decentralized and regional administration; and

(8) Ensuring that decisions are not based on patronage or political affiliation.